One of the commonly used mobility aids today is the mobility scooter. This healthcare device allows seniors and disabled people to move independently by assisting them in navigating through parks, malls, and stores.
Most people with mobility issues prefer mobility scooters to wheelchairs because the former provides a faster mode of transportation and does not require much physical effort to maneuver.
A typical scooter usually includes a steering wheel, a footboard, a comfortable seat, and three or four wheels. However, each manufacturer of these scooters features a range of details that can help people with limited mobility regain their independence.
Today, there are different types of mobility scooters that can cater to the unique needs of each user.
When selecting a suitable mobility device for yourself or your loved ones, it is necessary to consider several factors, such as lifestyle, daily activities, and the current physical capabilities of the user.
Here are the following tips that will guide you in selecting the right mobility scooter:
Assess the User’s Current Physical Capabilities
As much as possible, when selecting any mobility aids, it should be patient-specific, which means it is customized to the precise physiology or healthcare needs of the patient. Before purchasing, assess the unique circumstances and physical capabilities of the user to ensure that he or she can control the scooter comfortably and safely.
Check the user’s balance, eyesight, posture, and responsiveness to confidently control the device. Also, if you can determine the physical capabilities of the user, you will be able to choose the appropriate control features of the scooter and maximize its benefits.
Check the Weight Capacity of the Scooter
Check how much weight the scooter can carry and the seat height. Why? Because it is crucial to the safety, comfort, and stability of the user while riding the scooter. So, choose a scooter suitable for your weight and build. Aside from the user’s weight, consider also the weight of things likely to be carried, such as oxygen tanks and bags.
Know What Terrain a Mobility Scooter is Designed For
If the scooter will be used indoors or around the house, choose mobility scooters with the smallest turning radius that can easily navigate corners.
If the scooter will be used primarily outside, a four-wheel scooter is ideal because it can move over bumps and similar surfaces. There are also available scooters with enhanced outdoor functionality that can withstand wet or uneven terrain.
And if the user plans to travel long distances, consider a more stable and comfortable scooter with a better battery range, just like a heavy-duty scooter.
Consider the Storage and Portability
For easy transportation and storage, it is ideal to pick a compact travel scooter that is portable or foldable. It is also vital to check if the car has sufficient space and whether the user or the carer can assemble and disassemble the scooter.
Look for A Scooter with a Comfortable Seat
Being uncomfortably seated on a scooter for a long time can cause health problems for the user. So, if the user spends more time on a scooter, selecting one with a comfortable, well-padded seat may be the best option.
Summary
Choosing a mobility scooter that will serve your requirements the best can seem overwhelming at first. Each manufacturer of healthcare mobility devices offer a diverse selection of features that are suited to certain uses and users with the ultimate purpose of helping people with limited mobility regain a considerable amount of their independence.
If you or a loved one has mobility problems, knowing how to find the right scooter will ensure that you can get everywhere you want to go. The best way to figure out the right device is to consult a local retailer or visit a mobility showroom to talk with the expert staff.